Within how many months after site approval must a Free Standing Buona Business be opened?
Buona Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
You must open your Free Standing Buona Business within 15 months after obtaining our approval of your site. You must open your In-Line Buona Business within 12 months after obtaining our approval of your site. If extenuating circumstances beyond your control exist and you are making reasonable efforts to open the Buona Business, we may (in our sole discretion) agree to extend that time period for an additional reasonable amount of time. Otherwise, we may terminate your Franchise Agreement for your failure to open your Buona Business within the required time period.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS, AND TRAINING (FDD pages 37–46)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Buona's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, a franchisee must open their Free Standing Buona Business within 15 months after the site has been approved by Buona. This applies to both single-brand and dual-brand free-standing restaurants. The FDD also states that failure to open the business within this timeframe could result in the termination of the Franchise Agreement by Buona. However, Buona may extend the time period if extenuating circumstances exist and the franchisee is making reasonable efforts to open the business.
This requirement ensures that franchisees move forward with establishing their business in a timely manner after securing a location. The 15-month window provides time for build-out, equipment installation, hiring, and training. However, franchisees need to manage this process efficiently to avoid potential termination of their agreement.
It is important for prospective Buona franchisees to understand this timeline and factor it into their planning. Securing financing, obtaining necessary permits, and managing the construction process can all impact the opening date. Franchisees should communicate proactively with Buona if they encounter any delays that could affect their ability to meet the 15-month deadline.